From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

What a let down, 20 Nov 2008
Having read such glowing reviews of this book i began to read it with high expectations - it may well be a good descriptive text, but it has no impact at all on all of the billions of people on the planet who can't just conveniently run away to an island or go off for a year to find themselves - it was a self-satisfying, shallow read - i am sorry I wasted hard-earned money on it.

A True Adventure, 16 Nov 2008
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a true adventure as Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of Enlightenment. She beautifully shares her humanity and her vulnerability as she relaxes into her life. Her love for languages and food are full of passion as her descriptions of both are poetic and mouth-watering. Elizabeth Gilbert's true story and her search for well-being makes a fantastic story.

In my own search, I have found what Elizabeth Gilbert had set out to find, in Ariel & Shya Kanes' books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. I love that I can vicariously live through Elizabeth Gilbert's words, feeling like I lived her experience in Italy, India & Indonesia. And I love that I have found the life-style of well-being by reading the Kanes' books in the luxury of my own home. It's nice that the search is over.

Do not waste your money!, 18 Oct 2008
I ordered this book as I read the reviews on this site which led me to believe that it might actually be an interesting book.. but sadly no, I did not like it at all. It is written in a self-absorbed style, all about 'her'. Most people who travel do so because they want to see something of the world - all this girl needed was a mirror - this book tells you absolutely nothing about the places she visited and she travelled for one whole year!
A complete waste of time, incredibly shallow. Would not recommend to anyone and I do not understand the good reviews that it has been given.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

JOHN LE CARRE

Quite superb…..a masterpiece

WILLIAM BOYD

Tim Butcher's extraordinary, audacious journey through the Congo is worthy of the great 19th century explorers. Completely enthralling but also a thoughtful and sobering portrait of modern Africa

ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH

A remarkable, fascinating book by a courageous and perceptive writer. One of the most exciting books to emerge from Africa in recent years.

THE SUNDAY TIMES

Tim Butcher's book is the latest in a long line, running through Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene, VS Nai-paul… his account of a hair-rising trip from east to west, against all advice, by motorbike and then river boat, is gripping and harshly informative…

MAX HASTINGS

Blood River represents a remarkable marriage of travelogue and history, which deserves to make Tim Butcher a star for his prose, as well as his courage.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

From his adventure he has plundered a wealth of terrific stories, and survived to recite a rosary of unstinting horror.

FERGAL KEANE

This is a terrific book, an adventure story about a journey of great bravery in one of the world's most dangerous places. It keeps the heart beating and the attention fixed from beginning to end.

HATCHARDS

…unputdownable…

GILES FODEN

An intrepid adventure... Tim Butcher has followed in the footsteps of Stanley and Conrad. It takes a lot of guts to yomp through the Congo and he obviously has plenty of those. But it is the wit and passion of the writing which keeps you engrossed.

THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

..stirring and thought-provoking.

AESTHETICA MAGAZINE

….a remarkable travelogue of exquisite proportions…. highly emotive, historical and personal…Butcher's elegant style demands the reader's attention…….Blood River is nothing short of a modern-day masterpiece.

WANDERLUST

What makes Blood River such a compelling read is the fact that the journey becomes an exercise in mental terror, the author skilfully conveying the exhaustion of six weeks on tenterhooks, wondering what might happen just around the next bend.

THOMAS PAKENHAM

Tim Butcher deserves a medal for this crazy feat. I marvel at his courage and his empathy with the unfortunate Congolese...

ESQUIRE

…gripping…

TRAVEL AFRICA

The past meets present in this enthralling travelogue through the depths of the Congo.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

What a let down, 20 Nov 2008
Having read such glowing reviews of this book i began to read it with high expectations - it may well be a good descriptive text, but it has no impact at all on all of the billions of people on the planet who can't just conveniently run away to an island or go off for a year to find themselves - it was a self-satisfying, shallow read - i am sorry I wasted hard-earned money on it.

A True Adventure, 16 Nov 2008
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a true adventure as Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of Enlightenment. She beautifully shares her humanity and her vulnerability as she relaxes into her life. Her love for languages and food are full of passion as her descriptions of both are poetic and mouth-watering. Elizabeth Gilbert's true story and her search for well-being makes a fantastic story.

In my own search, I have found what Elizabeth Gilbert had set out to find, in Ariel & Shya Kanes' books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. I love that I can vicariously live through Elizabeth Gilbert's words, feeling like I lived her experience in Italy, India & Indonesia. And I love that I have found the life-style of well-being by reading the Kanes' books in the luxury of my own home. It's nice that the search is over.

Do not waste your money!, 18 Oct 2008
I ordered this book as I read the reviews on this site which led me to believe that it might actually be an interesting book.. but sadly no, I did not like it at all. It is written in a self-absorbed style, all about 'her'. Most people who travel do so because they want to see something of the world - all this girl needed was a mirror - this book tells you absolutely nothing about the places she visited and she travelled for one whole year!
A complete waste of time, incredibly shallow. Would not recommend to anyone and I do not understand the good reviews that it has been given.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

What a let down, 20 Nov 2008
Having read such glowing reviews of this book i began to read it with high expectations - it may well be a good descriptive text, but it has no impact at all on all of the billions of people on the planet who can't just conveniently run away to an island or go off for a year to find themselves - it was a self-satisfying, shallow read - i am sorry I wasted hard-earned money on it.

A True Adventure, 16 Nov 2008
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a true adventure as Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of Enlightenment. She beautifully shares her humanity and her vulnerability as she relaxes into her life. Her love for languages and food are full of passion as her descriptions of both are poetic and mouth-watering. Elizabeth Gilbert's true story and her search for well-being makes a fantastic story.

In my own search, I have found what Elizabeth Gilbert had set out to find, in Ariel & Shya Kanes' books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. I love that I can vicariously live through Elizabeth Gilbert's words, feeling like I lived her experience in Italy, India & Indonesia. And I love that I have found the life-style of well-being by reading the Kanes' books in the luxury of my own home. It's nice that the search is over.

Do not waste your money!, 18 Oct 2008
I ordered this book as I read the reviews on this site which led me to believe that it might actually be an interesting book.. but sadly no, I did not like it at all. It is written in a self-absorbed style, all about 'her'. Most people who travel do so because they want to see something of the world - all this girl needed was a mirror - this book tells you absolutely nothing about the places she visited and she travelled for one whole year!
A complete waste of time, incredibly shallow. Would not recommend to anyone and I do not understand the good reviews that it has been given.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Good god, this man is GOOOD!, 04 Apr 2008
Even though Clarkson himself says so ("Good God I love being middle class") the truth is much more inspiring and it's nice to see how modest he is. Truth is, he's actually working class but has come into a lot of money using his talents over the years.

If you want to see where the magic is, check out this literaly goliath!

Excellent read for those quiet moments, 31 Jan 2008
Taken straight from The Sunday Times, this is a collection of articles written by Clarkson in 2004 and 2005. Herein lies a problem, these articles are already at least 3 years old, meaning that the topical subject matter is rarely that topical any more.

Having said that, it is recent enough for the average reader to recall the subject matter, and perhaps have a wry grin because (a) things have turned out exactly as JC said they would, or (b) things have turned out exactly the opposite of how JC said they would.

The style is classic Clarkson. Aggressive, unapologetic and sarcastic. Depending on your political or ethical standpoint, you may find some of this book offensive. In fact, Clarkson books should carry a warning: "Caution: if you don't like Clarkson on the TV, don't buy this book." I know what to expect from Clarkson, but I don't take him too seriously. Still I know that under it all, the message is that none of us should take ourselves too seriously, because that would make life very dull.

Funny and Clever, 08 Jan 2008
The thing about Mr. Clarkson is that people label him a yob because he is loud, aggressive and opinionated. So far, so yob. He is however, rather clever, and when you read his well crafted newspaper articles, of which this book is a collection, that's what comes across most clearly. He thinks about what he is saying. He may not say what you want to hear. He may not say what makes him popular, but he says what he thinks, and what he thinks, for the most part is articulate, clever and well put. He is funny, he is, and I think this is a term not often used to describe him, self-deprecating (at times) and he is always interesting. I picked this up because it was there. I read the first article while I was bathing the kids. I expected to put it down and never pick it up again. Instead I carried it from the bathroom to the bedside and finished reading it. I was surprised. More importantly, I was entertained.

More of the same, 07 Jan 2008
If you liked the first book, you're probably going to like this one too. Clarkson writes well, he is amusing and entertaining and provided you can see past his often boorish style, you have to acknowledge that a lot of what he says albeit often in an exaggerated and light-hearted style is actually very true. He is a bemused observer in a peculiar country at a peculiar moment in history, one in which we are no longer allowed to do certain things because some other people think it might be bad for us- a point he comes back to agian and again.

Once again, he wisely chooses to keep his references to cars to a minimum, a welcome recognition from him that many of his readers actually have a life. It is truly the second volume, it offers nothing which the first volume didn't and for people who care what he thinks or enjoy the way he writes, the book offered here at the time of writing for four quid, represents good value.

Tells it like it is, 16 Dec 2007
I loved the first of Clarkson's books and this is almost as good. As with his on screen persona he doesn't pull any punches and the plain speaking makes for a great read.

The style of the book makes it ideal for dipping in and out of and it's a perfect book to read on journeys when you don't have time to get into something longer.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

What a let down, 20 Nov 2008
Having read such glowing reviews of this book i began to read it with high expectations - it may well be a good descriptive text, but it has no impact at all on all of the billions of people on the planet who can't just conveniently run away to an island or go off for a year to find themselves - it was a self-satisfying, shallow read - i am sorry I wasted hard-earned money on it.

A True Adventure, 16 Nov 2008
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a true adventure as Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of Enlightenment. She beautifully shares her humanity and her vulnerability as she relaxes into her life. Her love for languages and food are full of passion as her descriptions of both are poetic and mouth-watering. Elizabeth Gilbert's true story and her search for well-being makes a fantastic story.

In my own search, I have found what Elizabeth Gilbert had set out to find, in Ariel & Shya Kanes' books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. I love that I can vicariously live through Elizabeth Gilbert's words, feeling like I lived her experience in Italy, India & Indonesia. And I love that I have found the life-style of well-being by reading the Kanes' books in the luxury of my own home. It's nice that the search is over.

Do not waste your money!, 18 Oct 2008
I ordered this book as I read the reviews on this site which led me to believe that it might actually be an interesting book.. but sadly no, I did not like it at all. It is written in a self-absorbed style, all about 'her'. Most people who travel do so because they want to see something of the world - all this girl needed was a mirror - this book tells you absolutely nothing about the places she visited and she travelled for one whole year!
A complete waste of time, incredibly shallow. Would not recommend to anyone and I do not understand the good reviews that it has been given.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Good god, this man is GOOOD!, 04 Apr 2008
Even though Clarkson himself says so ("Good God I love being middle class") the truth is much more inspiring and it's nice to see how modest he is. Truth is, he's actually working class but has come into a lot of money using his talents over the years.

If you want to see where the magic is, check out this literaly goliath!

Excellent read for those quiet moments, 31 Jan 2008
Taken straight from The Sunday Times, this is a collection of articles written by Clarkson in 2004 and 2005. Herein lies a problem, these articles are already at least 3 years old, meaning that the topical subject matter is rarely that topical any more.

Having said that, it is recent enough for the average reader to recall the subject matter, and perhaps have a wry grin because (a) things have turned out exactly as JC said they would, or (b) things have turned out exactly the opposite of how JC said they would.

The style is classic Clarkson. Aggressive, unapologetic and sarcastic. Depending on your political or ethical standpoint, you may find some of this book offensive. In fact, Clarkson books should carry a warning: "Caution: if you don't like Clarkson on the TV, don't buy this book." I know what to expect from Clarkson, but I don't take him too seriously. Still I know that under it all, the message is that none of us should take ourselves too seriously, because that would make life very dull.

Funny and Clever, 08 Jan 2008
The thing about Mr. Clarkson is that people label him a yob because he is loud, aggressive and opinionated. So far, so yob. He is however, rather clever, and when you read his well crafted newspaper articles, of which this book is a collection, that's what comes across most clearly. He thinks about what he is saying. He may not say what you want to hear. He may not say what makes him popular, but he says what he thinks, and what he thinks, for the most part is articulate, clever and well put. He is funny, he is, and I think this is a term not often used to describe him, self-deprecating (at times) and he is always interesting. I picked this up because it was there. I read the first article while I was bathing the kids. I expected to put it down and never pick it up again. Instead I carried it from the bathroom to the bedside and finished reading it. I was surprised. More importantly, I was entertained.

More of the same, 07 Jan 2008
If you liked the first book, you're probably going to like this one too. Clarkson writes well, he is amusing and entertaining and provided you can see past his often boorish style, you have to acknowledge that a lot of what he says albeit often in an exaggerated and light-hearted style is actually very true. He is a bemused observer in a peculiar country at a peculiar moment in history, one in which we are no longer allowed to do certain things because some other people think it might be bad for us- a point he comes back to agian and again.

Once again, he wisely chooses to keep his references to cars to a minimum, a welcome recognition from him that many of his readers actually have a life. It is truly the second volume, it offers nothing which the first volume didn't and for people who care what he thinks or enjoy the way he writes, the book offered here at the time of writing for four quid, represents good value.

Tells it like it is, 16 Dec 2007
I loved the first of Clarkson's books and this is almost as good. As with his on screen persona he doesn't pull any punches and the plain speaking makes for a great read.

The style of the book makes it ideal for dipping in and out of and it's a perfect book to read on journeys when you don't have time to get into something longer.

The magic of the Mediterranean captured in text and images, 19 Sep 2008
The book's characteristics are the elegant, rich in historical and cultural content, insightful but witty and light in touch text and the beautiful photographs of landscape, seascape, buildings, monuments, ruins and works of art which are inextricably interwoven and mutually reinforcing;the impact on the reader is not merely additive but truly synergistic.

We travel with the author from the city of his birth, Venice aboard the Black Swan, a renovated 1899 yawl along trading routes of the Venetian Empire visiting the coastline and islands of the Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean seas with Istanbul (formerly Constantinople)the final destination. Some of these lands were former colonies of 'La Serenissima' and we witness its legacy in the form of medieval fortifications and buildings, the umbiquitous symbol of her strength, the winged lion, and her influences on art, architecture and culture. But the main focus is on the lands of indigenous people and their culture, history, art, buildings and monuments and contribution to the Mediterranean and world civilization.

We visit in succession Istria and Dalmatia and its fortified city port of Dubrovnic, its high walls and bastions commanding the blue sea before moving on to Montenegro and Albania. Then ensues an extensive tour of the island and mainland Greece comprising half of the chapters and size of the book. In the Ionian, we visit Corfu and the Ionian islands to which the Meteora in the mainland are added and offered an awe inspiring view of these precipitous rocks with monasteries perched on their top. The preceding chapter is introduced with possibly the most fascinating photograph in the book featuring the islet of Pontikonissi off Corfu surrounded by the sea with distant mountain ranges presenting Mediterranean at its beautiful best. The chapter on Dephi and Athens is aptly introduced as the cradle of civilization. Athens in particular had not simply a Mediterranean but a truly global impact. In a brief period during the second half of the 5th century BC in an era known as Pericles' golden age a true miracle took place. The Parthenon was built on the Acropolis exemplifying the ideal of classical beauty as an expression of measure and harmony, a similar gratifying evolution took place in the visual arts with the human body captured in movement and acquiring plasticity while this period witnessed also the birth of democracy, philosophy and theatre as an allegory of the human condition and social life. In Peloponnese we visit the theatre of Epidaurus with its impressive acoustics. And then follow visits in the Aegean of the Cyclades, Dodecanese and Crete where the dazzling Minoan civilization evolved in 2000 BC. The voyage ends in Istanbul with a magnificent photograph of the blue mosque and parts of the Topkapi and Dolmabache palaces. An omission in my judgment is the church of Hagia Sophia of which we are presented with only a fine mosaic of the Virgin and Child in the interior of the church.

The book is visually attractive, intellectually stimulating and captures the essence of the Mediterranean.

francescos meditweenwan voyage, 28 Aug 2008
This is a wonderful journey, with a man that enjoys life, it made me want to do the exact same thing as him, read, relax and travel with Frankie.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Never Read a Book so Quickly!, 10 Nov 2008
I bought this book on Saturday. It's Monday now and I've just finished it, which for me is very fast indeed, and a reflection on what a fascinating and well written book it is.

I heard the author talking about his travels and studies on BBC Radio 4 and thought his ideas about linguistics were interesting, but when I had a quick look at the book before I bought it I realised it was much more than an work about the theory of language. It's actually a rare combination of exciting adventure story, anthropology AND linguistics. The conclusions Everett reaches after 30 years of living amongst the Piraha people get right to the heart of what makes us who we are as human beings, and provide a fascinating insight into another way of life we would otherwise never have heard of, or at least would understand only superficially.

The first half of the book focuses on the lives of the Piraha (and the experiences of Everett living with them), the second half focuses on the linguistics. This structure works really well and the book is a great fusion of entertainment and information throughout.

What a let down, 20 Nov 2008
Having read such glowing reviews of this book i began to read it with high expectations - it may well be a good descriptive text, but it has no impact at all on all of the billions of people on the planet who can't just conveniently run away to an island or go off for a year to find themselves - it was a self-satisfying, shallow read - i am sorry I wasted hard-earned money on it.

A True Adventure, 16 Nov 2008
"Eat, Pray, Love" is a true adventure as Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of Enlightenment. She beautifully shares her humanity and her vulnerability as she relaxes into her life. Her love for languages and food are full of passion as her descriptions of both are poetic and mouth-watering. Elizabeth Gilbert's true story and her search for well-being makes a fantastic story.

In my own search, I have found what Elizabeth Gilbert had set out to find, in Ariel & Shya Kanes' books, Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Life, How to Create a Magical Relationship: The 3 Simple Ideas that Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life: The 3 Simple Ideas That Will Instantaneously Transform Your Love Life, and Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment. I love that I can vicariously live through Elizabeth Gilbert's words, feeling like I lived her experience in Italy, India & Indonesia. And I love that I have found the life-style of well-being by reading the Kanes' books in the luxury of my own home. It's nice that the search is over.

Do not waste your money!, 18 Oct 2008
I ordered this book as I read the reviews on this site which led me to believe that it might actually be an interesting book.. but sadly no, I did not like it at all. It is written in a self-absorbed style, all about 'her'. Most people who travel do so because they want to see something of the world - all this girl needed was a mirror - this book tells you absolutely nothing about the places she visited and she travelled for one whole year!
A complete waste of time, incredibly shallow. Would not recommend to anyone and I do not understand the good reviews that it has been given.

Perfect, 10 Oct 2008
This is the most wonderful book I've ever read. She is whitty, charismatic and her insights and paths are so similar to mine I was able to relate on every page. Even if this is not similar to your path (some of my happily or newly married friends were not fussed by it) she stresses the importance of getting in touch with who you really are and how to find you. I have bought about 10 of these books and have given them to friends around the world from all walks of life. Amazing book I give it my highest recommendation.

Inspiring and empowering - read and pass it on!, 16 Sep 2008
Fantastic and humourous writing - couldn't put it down. Immediately passed the "wealth" to one of my best girlfriends upon completion. Every woman must read this!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Good god, this man is GOOOD!, 04 Apr 2008
Even though Clarkson himself says so ("Good God I love being middle class") the truth is much more inspiring and it's nice to see how modest he is. Truth is, he's actually working class but has come into a lot of money using his talents over the years.

If you want to see where the magic is, check out this literaly goliath!

Excellent read for those quiet moments, 31 Jan 2008
Taken straight from The Sunday Times, this is a collection of articles written by Clarkson in 2004 and 2005. Herein lies a problem, these articles are already at least 3 years old, meaning that the topical subject matter is rarely that topical any more.

Having said that, it is recent enough for the average reader to recall the subject matter, and perhaps have a wry grin because (a) things have turned out exactly as JC said they would, or (b) things have turned out exactly the opposite of how JC said they would.

The style is classic Clarkson. Aggressive, unapologetic and sarcastic. Depending on your political or ethical standpoint, you may find some of this book offensive. In fact, Clarkson books should carry a warning: "Caution: if you don't like Clarkson on the TV, don't buy this book." I know what to expect from Clarkson, but I don't take him too seriously. Still I know that under it all, the message